COVID-19 has again become the predominant respiratory virus in Costa Rica, with a 34% increase in confirmed cases and five deaths during the latest epidemiological week, according to the Ministry of Health.
During epidemiological week 29 (July 13-19), authorities confirmed 126 new cases, up from 94 the previous week. Hospitalizations rose 56%, with 29 patients admitted compared to 18 the prior week.
The five deaths mark the highest weekly toll this year, bringing the cumulative total to 16. The virus has displaced parainfluenza and rhinovirus as the main circulating respiratory agent.
The Ministry of Health urged the public to maintain preventive measures, including up-to-date vaccinations, frequent handwashing, covering coughs, and staying home when symptomatic. No official sanitary emergency has been declared.
The National Children's Hospital reported 66 pediatric patients with severe respiratory infections, a 90% bed occupancy. Dr. Marcela Hernández noted occupancy has fluctuated, reaching a peak of 139% recently, but the surge is slower than previous years, partly due to maternal RSV vaccination.
Source: thecostaricanews.com
